Tanahashi made his NJPW debut in 1999 and went on to become one of the biggest stars in company history. Tanahashi is a former seven-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion and two-time IWGP Intercontinental Champion. He is coming off a banner 2018 that saw him enter the new year as IWGP Intercontinental Champion, win his third G1 Glimax tournament, and defeat his longtime rival Kazuchika Okada. Later in the year, he formed a dream team with Okada during the World Tag League tour. He was named 2018 NJPW MVP by Tokyo Sports.

He is scheduled to challenge Kenny Omega for the IWGP Heavyweight Title at Wrestle Kingdom 13 on Jan. 4.